Adjustable board hanging device

ABSTRACT

Disclosed are the ornamental design and utilitarian characteristics of a tool configured for associating an attachment-device (such as a joist hanger) with a structure (such as a ledger board). The tool comprises an alignment element that is placed in alignment with an edge defined by a structure so as to define an A-axis and B-axis location for associating the attachment-device to the structure.

CLAIM TO PRIORITY

This application claims priority to and is a continuation of applicationSer. No. 29/499,755, now U.S. Pat. D782,264, filed on 19 Aug. 2014, anda continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/566,367, filed on10 Dec. 2014, of which the entire contents are incorporated herein bythis reference for all that they disclose for all purposes.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

Embodiments of the present invention relate in general to the ornamentaland utilitarian features for a device normally used in the field ofconstruction for associating (“setting”) an attachment-element (such asa joist hanger) with a support surface such as a ledger board.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

When constructing buildings, it is often necessary to associate twopieces of material and such task is often performed using some type ofspecialized hardware or attachment-element. For wood buildings, forexample, it is often necessary to associate two pieces of lumber such asa joist board to a ledger board. For such tasks, attachment-elements(such as joist hangers) are often used.

Joist hangers come in many sizes to support different dimensional sizesof lumber and joists. When building a deck, for example, the prior artmethod of associating a joist to a ledger board using a joist hangertypically involves a first step of toenailing the decking joists intoposition along the wall ledger using a galvanized nail. One must be sureto associate the joist to the ledger board so that the top edge of thejoist will be even with the top of the flashing on the wall ledger tocreate a flat/level surface. The next step is to associate a joisthanger tightly around the joist and driving “speed prongs” (provide bythe joist hanger) into the ledger board to temporarily hold the joist inplace. In such step it is important that one make sure the joist issitting squarely in the joist hanger without gaps alongside and underthe joist. The final step is to associate the joist hanger to the wallledger and the joist using galvanized nails.

While such method of using a joist hanger to associate two pieces ofconstruction material works well, there is much room for improvementregarding efficiency and consistency.

The disclosed invention relates ornamental features and well asutilitarian features for methods and adjustable tools for improving theefficiency and consistency of associating two pieces of constructionmaterial via an attachment-element such as a joist hanger.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

Some of the objects and advantages of the invention will now be setforth in the following description, while other objects and advantagesof the invention may be obvious from the description or may be learnedthrough practice of the invention.

Broadly speaking, a principle object of the present invention is toprovide a tool for associating an attachment-element with a piece ofconstruction material.

Another object of the present invention is to provide an adjustable toolcomprising a magnetic interface for associating an attachment-elementwith a piece of construction material.

Yet another object of the invention is to provide a tool for associatinga joist hanger to a support structure.

Still another object of the invention is to provide an adjustable toolfor associating an attachment-element with a piece of constructionmaterial wherein such tool provides can measure from the top of theconstruction material and the bottom of the construction material.

Another object of the present invention is to provide a method ofassociating a joist hanger to a support structure.

Another general object of the present invention is to provide a methodof associating a joist to support structure using an attachment-elementwherein a tool is used to associate the attachment-element to suchsupport structure.

To achieve the above goals and objects of the various embodiments of theinventions, a tool is provided for associating an attachment-element(such as a joist hanger) to a structure (such as a ledger board). Suchtool comprises a handle-portion and an opposing interface-portion. Thehandle-portion defines a handle top end and an opposing handle bottomend. Similarly, the interface-portion defines an interface-top-end andan opposing interface-bottom-end. A top-portion mechanically associatesthe handle top end to the interface-top-end while a bottom-portionmechanically associating the handle bottom end to theinterface-bottom-end thereby defining a tool-void defined between saidhandle-portion, said interface-portion, said top-portion, and saidbottom-portion. For one embodiment such a configuration resembles thegeneral shape of a staple gun.

The tool further defines an alignment-element that is one of (a)integral to the bottom-portion, (b) integral to the interface-portion,(c) mechanically associated with the bottom-portion, and (d)mechanically associated with the interface-portion. Indeed, for oneembodiment, the tool defines one-piece tool formed from compositematerials.

The tool further defines a “gap setter” configured for setting the gapof opposing sides of said attachment-element. For example, suppose theattachment-element is a joist hanger comprising a bottom platemechanically associated with a left side flange and a right-side flangeand the distance between said flanges is the joist hanger gap. Suchjoist hanger gap is ideally equal (or slightly longer) than the width ofthe board to be inserted between such flanges. For one embodiment of thetool, the tool is configured to receive such flanges and set the gapthere between. Ideally, such gap would be substantially the samedistance as the width of the board to be inserted into the joist hangerso that such board fits snugly into the joist hanger. For oneembodiment, the gap setter is mechanically associated with sides of saidinterface-portion. For yet another embodiment the “gap setter” comprisesa magnetic element (such as a rare earth magnetic) associated with theinterface-portion and configured to attract the flanges tight againstthe side of the interface portion.

The tool may be configured with tool accessories configured to provideat least one of distance data and angle/leveling data. The distance datais used to correctly space the joist hangers from adjacent structures(such as adjacent boards) and the leveling data is used to make thejoist edges “level” or to provide a desired grade (a “grade” is a slightangle from level perhaps selected to allow for fluid run off away from abuilding).

Additional objects and advantages of the present invention are set forthin the detailed description herein or will be apparent to those skilledin the art upon reviewing the detailed description. Also, it should befurther appreciated that modifications and variations to thespecifically illustrated, referenced, and discussed steps, or featureshereof may be practiced in various uses and embodiments of thisinvention without departing from the spirit and scope thereof, by virtueof the present reference thereto. Such variations may include, but arenot limited to, substitution of equivalent steps, referenced ordiscussed, and the functional, operational, or positional reversal ofvarious features, steps, parts, or the like. Still further, it is to beunderstood that different embodiments, as well as different presentlypreferred embodiments, of this invention may include variouscombinations or configurations of presently disclosed features orelements, or their equivalents (including combinations of features orparts or configurations thereof not expressly shown in the figures orstated in the detailed description).

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

A full and enabling description of the present subject matter, includingthe best mode thereof, directed to one of ordinary skill in the art, isset forth in the specification, which makes reference to the appendedfigures, in which:

FIG. 1 depicts a prior art method of associating a joist with a ledgerboard;

FIG. 2 presents an image of a joist hanger being associated with aledger board using one embodiment of the disclosed tool apparatus;

FIG. 3 presents an image of a joist hanger that has been associated witha ledger board using a disclosed tool apparatus;

FIG. 4 is a left side elevation view of one embodiment of a one-pieceintegral tool apparatus;

FIG. 5 is a right-side elevation view thereof;

FIG. 6 is a front elevation view thereof;

FIG. 7 is a back-elevation view thereof;

FIG. 8 is a top plan view thereof;

FIG. 9 is a bottom plan view thereof;

FIG. 10 is an elevated perspective view thereof;

FIG. 11 is a left side elevation view of one alternative embodiment withan adjustment-element thereof;

FIG. 12 is a left side elevation view of one alternative embodiment withthe adjustment-element removed;

FIG. 13 is a right-side elevation view of one alternative embodimentwith an adjustment-element thereof;

FIG. 14 is a right-side elevation view of one alternative embodimentwith the adjustment-element removed;

FIG. 15 is a front elevation view of one alternative embodiment with anadjustment-element thereof;

FIG. 16 is a front elevation view of one alternative embodiment with theadjustment-element removed;

FIG. 17 is a back-elevation view of one alternative embodiment with anadjustment-element thereof;

FIG. 18 is a back-elevation view of one alternative embodiment with theadjustment-element removed;

FIG. 19 is a top plan view of one alternative embodiment with anadjustment-element thereof;

FIG. 20 is a top plan view of one alternative embodiment with theadjustment-element removed;

FIG. 21 is a bottom plan view of one alternative embodiment with anadjustment-element thereof;

FIG. 22 is a bottom plan view of one alternative embodiment with theadjustment-element removed;

FIG. 23 is a front elevated perspective view of one alternativeembodiment with an adjustment-element thereof;

FIG. 23b is a front elevated perspective view of one alternativeembodiment with an adjustment-element relocated;

FIG. 24 is a front elevation perspective view of one alternativeembodiment with the adjustment removed;

FIG. 25 is an elevated perspective view of one exemplary of anadjustment-element thereof;

FIG. 26 is a front elevation view of one alternative embodiment of anadjustment-element thereof;

FIG. 27 is a back-elevation view of one alternative embodiment of anadjustment-element thereof;

FIG. 28 is a right-side elevation view of one alternative embodiment ofan adjustment-element thereof;

FIG. 29 is a left side elevation view of one alternative embodiment ofan adjustment-element thereof;

FIG. 30 is a top plan view of one alternative embodiment of anadjustment-element thereof;

FIG. 31 is a bottom plan view of one alternative embodiment of anadjustment-element thereof;

FIG. 32 is a back-elevation view of one tool embodiment associate withan electronic module;

FIG. 33a is a first close-up elevation view of the display for oneembodiment of an electronic module that provides leveling data anddistance date;

FIG. 33b is a second close-up elevation view of the display for oneembodiment of an electronic module that provides leveling data anddistance date;

FIG. 33c is a third close-up elevation view of the display for oneembodiment of an electronic module that provides leveling data anddistance date;

FIG. 33d is a fourth close-up elevation view of the display for oneembodiment of an electronic module that provides leveling data anddistance date;

FIG. 34 is a right-side elevation view of one embodiment of a toolapparatus comprising an adjustable arm;

FIG. 35 is a left-side perspective view of the tool depicted in FIG. 34;and

FIG. 36 is a side elevational view of one embodiment of an a side armshowing a plurality of scale elements.

Repeat use of reference characters throughout the present specificationand appended drawings is intended to represent the same or analogousfeatures or elements of the present technology. Various objects,advantages, and features of the invention will become apparent to thoseskilled in the art from the following discussion taken in conjunctionwith the drawings.

DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

Reference now will be made in detail to the embodiments of theinvention, one or more examples of which are set forth below. Eachexample is provided by way of explanation of the invention, notlimitation of the invention. In fact, it will be apparent to thoseskilled in the art that various modifications and variations can be madein the present invention without departing from the scope or spirit ofthe invention. For instance, features illustrated or described as partof one embodiment can be used on another embodiment to yield a stillfurther embodiment. Thus, it is intended that the present inventioncovers such modifications and variations as come within the scope of theappended claims and their equivalents. Other objects, features, andaspects of the present invention are disclosed in or may be determinedfrom the following detailed description. Repeat use of referencecharacters is intended to represent same or analogous features, elementsor steps. It is to be understood by one of ordinary skill in the artthat the present discussion is a description of exemplary embodimentsonly and is not intended as limiting the broader aspects of the presentinvention.

Construction Aids

This document contains headers to provide reference points only and suchheaders are not intended and should not be used in any way to limit thescope of the disclosure.

For the purposes of this document two or more items are “mechanicallyassociated” by bringing them together or into relationship with eachother in any number of ways including a direct or indirect physicalconnection that are (a) movable (rotating, pivoting, oscillating, etc.),(b) releasable without tools (snaps, Velcro®, zippers, buttons, etc.)(c) releasable but generally requiring a tool (screws, bolts, etc.), and(d) breakable connections (all other connections such as welding,rivets, molecular bonds, etc.). Thus, items that are simply“mechanically associated” can include any of the above while items thatare “moveably mechanically associated” include only a subset of theabove such as subset “(a)”.

For the purposes of this document, unless otherwise stated, the phrase“at least one of A, B, and C” means there is at least one of A, or atleast one of B, or at least one of C or any combination thereof (not oneof A, and one of B, and one of C).

As used herein, the terms “first,” “second,” and “third” may be usedinterchangeably to distinguish one component from another and are notintended to signify location or importance of the individual components.

Similarly, two or more items are “electrically associated” by bringingthem together or into relationship with each other in any number of waysincluding: (a) a direct, indirect or inductive communication connection,and (b) a direct/indirect or inductive power connection. Additionally,while the drawings may illustrate various electronic components of asystem connected by a single line, it will be appreciated that suchlines may represent one or more signal paths, power connections,electrical connections and/or cables as required by the embodiment ofinterest.

Similarly, while a module or device may be portrayed as having variousbuilt-in electronic systems configured for performing a specializedfunction, it should be recognized that such module or device maycomprise a plurality of physically separated but cooperativelyassociated electronic devices that are not shown independently such as aradiofrequency transmitter and receiver, light generators includinglasers, a processor, one or more display means, magnetic sensor/readers,an sound generators, and the like, which are ideally communicating withor under control of the a central processing device.

The examples in this document relate to the task of associating twowooden components together using an attachment-element (e.g. associatinga joist to a ledger board via a joist hanger). It should be appreciated,however, that such tool can be used to associate any type ofattachment-element to any type of support structure constructed from anytype of material without departing from the scope and spirit of theinvention.

DESCRIPTION

Referring now to FIG. 1, a carpenter (6) is presented associating twowooden components (first structure (10) and second structure (14))together using an attachment-element (20) according to one exemplaryprior art method. For such example, first structure (10) is a ledgerboard and second structure (14) is a joist and attachment-element (20)is a joist hanger. Carpenter (6) first “toenails” a joist (14) usingnail (18) to ledger (10) being careful to associate the joist to theledger board so that the joist top edge (16) is level with the ledgertop edge (12). The next step is to associate a joist hanger (20) tightlyaround the joist (14) and then drive speed prongs (21, FIG. 3) into theledger board to temporarily hold the joist (14) in place (while makingsure the joist is sitting squarely in the joist hanger without gapsalongside and under the joist). The final step is to associate the joisthanger (20) to the wall ledger (10) and the joist (14) by driving nailsinto predefined holes defined by the joist hanger.

Referring now to FIG. 2 through FIG. 10, one exemplary embodiment oftool (30) configured for associating an attachment-element (20, FIG. 3)to a first structure (12) is presented. For the currently preferredembodiment, tool (30) comprises a handle-portion (36) and opposinginterface-portion (38) defining width (38 w, FIG. 6). The handle-portion(36) defines a handle top end (36 a) and an opposing handle bottom end(36 b) and the interface-portion (38) further defines aninterface-top-end (38 a) and an opposing interface-bottom-end (38 b).

Tool (30) further comprises top-portion (42) and bottom-portion (44)wherein said top-portion (42) mechanically associates handle top end (36a) to interface-top-end (38 a) and bottom-portion (44) mechanicallyassociates handle bottom end (36 b) to the interface-bottom-end (38 b).As shown in FIG. 4, a tool-void (40) is defined between thehandle-portion, interface-portion, top-portion, and the bottom-portion.

For the exemplary embodiment depicted in FIG. 4-FIG. 10, analignment-element (32) is defined by, and is integral to, thebottom-portion and extends perpendicularly away from theinterface-portion (38). Such alignment-element (32) may be (a) integralto said bottom-portion, (b) integral to said interface-portion, (c)mechanically associated with said bottom-portion, and (d) mechanicallyassociated with said interface-portion.

It will be appreciated that for the currently preferred embodiment, asdepicted in FIG. 4 through FIG. 10, the tool, including thealignment-element, is molded from a composite material to define oneintegral component. That said, for one alternative embodiment, anycombination of the various portions may be any number of separatecomponents that are mechanically associated together to form tool (30).Notably, the handle-portion, interface-portion, top-portion, andbottom-portion each define a plurality of portion-voids (35, FIG. 5).Such portion-voids reduce the amount of material required to form tool(30) an also reduces the tool's weight and may define interfaces forreceiving/storing items.

For the currently preferred embodiment, running along the sides ofinterface-portion (38) are gap-setters (33) defining slots (37)configured to maintain a desired flange gap (25, FIG. 3) (described inmore detail below). As best seen in FIG. 6, interface-portion (38)defines a flat surface having an interface-portion-width (38 w) that isabout equal to the flange gap (25) defined by attachment-element (20).One of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that flange gap (25)will be equal to or slightly wider than the width (17) of secondstructure (14, FIG. 1). Stated differently, interface-portion (38)preferably defines an interface-portion-width (38 w) that issubstantially equal to the width (17) defined by second structure (14).Gap-setters (33) define slots (37) configured to receive and hold theattachment-element (20) flanges (i.e. flange (23 a) and flange (23 b)FIG. 3) adjacent to interface-portion (38) to maintain the desiredflange gap. Notably, gap-setters (33) may define a magnetic element(such as a rare earth magnet) associated with a portion-void (35)defined by interface-portion (38). Such magnetic element would attractand hold the flanges against the sides of interface-portion (38 b).

In fact, one of ordinary skill in the art will further appreciate thatwhere the attachment-element (20) is a joist hanger comprising a bottomplate (22) mechanically associated with a left side flange (23 a) and aright side flange (23 b) as depicted in FIG. 3, the gap setter (33) isconfigured to receive such flanges so that joint hanger bottom plate(22) is in alignment with said alignment-element (32) when theattachment-element is associated with tool (30) as depicted FIG. 2.

Tool Accessories

As best seen in FIG. 32 and FIG. 33, electronic measurement module (50)defines one tool accessory configured for being mechanically associatedwith tool (30) to provide measurement data including leveling data anddistance data. Yet another tool accessory is magnetic element (46)configured for being associated with a portion-void as depicted in FIG.14. Such magnetic element (46) may be a rare earth magnet that issuitable for holding ferrous objects such as nails, screws, drill bits,etc. and can be further used to stow tool (30) against a ferrous object.

Electronic module (50) is preferably configured to provide levelingdata. A first leveling data relates to the vertical alignment of firststructure (10, such as a ledger board). As depicted in FIG. 33a -FIG.33d , for one preferred embodiment electronic module (50) is configuredwith a display (52) to provide a structure-alignment gauge (54)configured to provide an indication of whether or not the firststructure is in vertical alignment with the gravity. Thestructure-alignment gauge (54) defines an “F” forward tilt, a “∥”plumb/vertical indicator, and a “B” backward tilt indicator. As depictedin FIG. 33a and FIG. 33b , structure-alignment gauge (54) may alsoprovide a digital readout of the alignment angle such as the 1.1 degreestilt back as indicated in FIG. 33 b.

A second leveling data relates to the vertical alignment of theattachment-element (20) relative to a surface/edge of first structure(10). For such currently preferred embodiment, display (52) furtherprovides an attachment-element-alignment gauge (56) to provide anindication of whether or not the attachment-element (20) is in verticalalignment with a surface/edge defined by first structure (10). Theattachment-element-alignment gauge (56) defines an “L” left tilt, a “∥”plumb/vertical indicator, and an “R” right tilt indicator.Attachment-element-alignment gauge (54) may also provide a digitalreadout of the alignment angle such as the 0.5-degree Left Tilt asindicated in FIG. 33 b.

For such feature, interface-portion (38) is placed flat against theappropriate surface of first structure (10) (as depicted in FIG. 2). Ifthe structure (10) and attachment-element (20) are both in verticalalignment, display (52) provides the leveling data depicted in FIG. 33d.

If the top edge of structure (10) and bottom edge of structure (10) arenot in vertical alignment with gravity and the top edge tilts away fromtool (30) the level icon is shifted to the “F” position (FIG. 33a ) anda digital value is given (e.g. 3.3. degrees). If the bottom edge ofstructure (10) tilts away from tool (30), the level icon is shifted tothe “B” position (FIG. 33b ) and a digital value is given (e.g. 0.5degrees). If the top edge and bottom edge of first structure (10) are invertical alignment with gravity, structure-alignment gauge (54)indicates a plumb/vertical alignment as depicted in FIG. 33c and FIG.33d . Such data allow one to establish a grade if desired.

Similarly, for the attachment-element (20), if the top edge of theattachment-element (20) is to the left of the bottom edge of theattachment-element (20), the attachment-element (20) is said to tilt tothe left and attachment-element-alignment (56) icon is shifted to the“L” position (FIG. 33b ) and a digital value is given (e.g. 0.5degrees). If the top edge of the attachment-element (20) is to the rightof the bottom edge of the alignment-element (20), the attachment-element(20) is said to tilt to the right and attachment-element-alignment (56)icon is shifted to the “R” position (FIG. 33c ) and a digital value isgiven (e.g. 2.6 degrees).

For yet another alternative embodiment, electronic module (50) ispreferably configured to provide distance data. For the currentlypreferred embodiment, a distance sensor determines the distance to anadjacent structure. Such sensor can be sound or electromagnetic based,(e.g. lasers, radio frequency, etc.).

As before, interface-portion (38) is placed flat against the appropriatesurface of first structure (10) (as depicted in FIG. 2). The distancesensor is then activated (if not already active) to determine thedistance to an adjacent structure and presents the distance data viadistance-display (58). The tool (30) can then be moved along structure(10) until the desired gap between adjacent structures is achieved.Notably, electronic module (50) may include a left and a right distancesensor and display a left distance and a right distance and such sensorsmay be configured to activate simultaneously or one at a time.Simultaneous operation is useful to find the center point between twostructures.

One of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that electronic module(50) may be replaced with non-electronic sensors such as bubble levelsand tape measures and telescoping rods. Additionally, other electronicmodules or functions may be provided such as a “stud finder” function.

Method of Associating Attachment-Element

Referring now to FIG. 2 and FIG. 3, FIG. 2 presents one exemplaryembodiment of a tool (30) being used to associate an attachment-element(20) with a first structure. Notably, no tool accessories are used bythe currently preferred method. FIG. 3 shows the exemplaryattachment-element (20) (joist hanger) after being associated with firststructure (10). For the current exemplary method, attachment-element(20) is a joist hanger comprising a bottom plate (22) mechanicallyassociated with a left side flange (23 a), a right-side flange (23 b)(referred to collectively as side flanges), and a left front plate(26-LFP) and a right front plate (26-RFP) extending perpendicularly fromsaid flanges respectively.

First, an alignment mark is manually measured indicating the desiredposition along structure (10) to position joist hanger (20). Suchmeasured location defines an “A”-axis location (alignment-mark (11)) ona structure where an attachment-element (20) is to be positioned.Second, a joist hanger (20) is associated with tool (30) so that theflanges are received by gap-setters (33). Restated, one configures atool to receive an attachment-element (20) wherein said tool isassociated with an alignment-element (32 or 32 b) configured for beingassociated with an edge (alignment point, e.g. point 13, FIG. 2) definedby the first structure (10) thereby defining a B-axis location onstructure (10) where said attachment-element is to be positioned. Usingtool (30), the front plates (26) are brought in contact with a surfaceof first structure (10) (wall ledger for this example) and intoalignment with alignment mark (11) as depicted in FIG. 2. Thealignment-element (32) is then associated with the appropriate alignmentpoint defined by structure (10). For the current example, the alignmentpoint is first structure bottom edge (13). Front plates (26) are thensecured to the surface of first structure (10) and tool (30) is removedas depicted in FIG. 3.

The next step is to insert an end of second structure (14) between theflanges of joist hanger (20) so the bottom edge of second structure (14)is adjacent to bottom plate (22). Flanges (26) are then secured tosecond structure (14).

It should be appreciated that the flange gap (25) is slightly largerthan the width (17) of second structure (14) so that second structure(14) can be inserted into such flange gap so that the bottom defined bythe second structure can rest on bottom plate (22) thereby minimizingthe gap between the sides flanges of second structure (14) and aligningthe first and second structure so that first structure top edge (12) islevel with second structure top edge (16) as depicted in FIG. 1.

For tool (30) embodiments configured with an electronic measurementmodule (50), the method is the same as above except for the step ofmeasuring a manual alignment mark. When an electronic measurement module(50) is used, carpenter (6) simply uses tool (30) to bring the frontplates (26) in contact with a surface of first structure (10) andactivates (if not already active) the distance measurement sensor toindicate the distance from an adjacent structure and moves joist hangeralong the surface of first structure (10) until the desired distance isachieved. Then the carpenter uses the vertical alignment indicators tovertically align the joist hanger while the alignment-element isassociated with the proper alignment point of structure (10). When theproper distance is indicated, and vertical alignment is indicated whilethe alignment-element is associated with the alignment point, the frontplates (26) are secured to first structure (10). Next the secondstructure is associated with the joist hanger as before and secured inplace. This method also allows the carpenter to easily establish aconsistent non-zero grade if desired.

Adjustable Tool

As described above, FIG. 4 through FIG. 10 depicts a tool apparatus (30)that is one integral part including the alignment-element (32). Further,alignment-element (32) was configured to be associated with an alignmentpoint such as the bottom edge of structure (10). Such a system workswell for a plurality of second structures (14) where such secondstructures have uniform shape and dimensions. When the second structuresare a joist, for example, and such plurality of joists where perhapsmachined at different times, the widths and/or heights of such pluralityof joists may vary. One of ordinary skill in the art will appreciatedthat such is a problem when the reference point is the bottom of thefirst structure (10) and it is the top edges of first structure (10) andsecond structure (14) that need to be level. Consequently, the nextalternative embodiment shows an adjustable tool apparatus (30) definingan adjustable alignment-element (32 b).

Attention is now directed to FIG. 11 through FIG. 31 which presents oneexemplary embodiment of an adjustable tool apparatus (30) forassociating an attachment-element (20) to a first structure (10). Asbefore, tool apparatus (30) comprises a handle-portion (36) and opposinginterface-portion (38) wherein said handle-portion (36) defines a handletop end (36 a) and an opposing handle bottom end (36 b) and wherein saidinterface-portion (38) defines an interface-top-end (38 a) and anopposing interface-bottom-end (38 b).

As before, tool apparatus (30) further comprises top-portion (42) andbottom-portion (44) wherein said top-portion (42) mechanicallyassociates handle top end (36 a) to interface-top-end (38 a) andbottom-portion (44) mechanically associates handle bottom end (36 b) tothe interface-bottom-end (38 b). It should be noted that for thecurrently preferred embodiment top-portion (42) defines an “angular”section in contrast to the generally straight top-portion for theprevious embodiment. As shown in FIG. 11, a tool-void (40) is definedbetween the handle-portion, interface-portion, top-portion, and thebottom-portion.

As with the previous embodiments, at least one portion of the adjustabletool defines a portion void and preferably a plurality of portion-voids(35). Such portion-voids reduce the amount of material required to formtool (30) an also reduces the tool's weight and provides provide storageand interface features.

For the adjustable tool apparatus (10) depicted in FIG. 11-FIG. 31, aremovable alignment-element (32 b) is shown removably mechanicallyassociated with alignment-element receiver (31, FIG. 16) defined bybottom-portion (44) and extends perpendicularly away from theinterface-portion (38). Similarly, as best seen in FIG. 23-FIG. 24,interface-portion (38) defines a plurality ofalignment-element-receivers (31 a), (31 b), and (31 c) configured forreleasably receiving an alignment-element (32 b) configured to bereleasably associated with any one of said plurality ofalignment-element-receivers (31 a-31 b).

For example, FIG. 23b depicts an alignment-element (32 b) associatedwith one of the alignment-element-receivers in group (31 a). One ofordinary skill in the art will appreciated that for the configurationdepicted in FIG. 23b , the reference point defined by structure (10)will be first structure top edge (12) instead of first structure bottomedge (13). Thus, attachment-element (20) will be associated withstructure (10) referenced to top edge (12) so that any difference insecond structure (14) height causes no alignment error.

Adjustable Arm

Referring now more particularly to FIG. 34 through FIG. 36, tool (30) isconfigured with an Adjustable Arm (70). As before, the currentlypreferred embodiment of the adjustable tool (30) is configured forassociating an attachment-device (such as a joist hanger) with astructure (such as a ledger board) but with the addition of anadjustable arm (70). The handle-portion (36) is associated with theopposing interface-portion (38) as before but with an adjustable armelement adjustably associated with such interface-portion (38) asdepicted in FIG. 34. The interface portion defines an integral firstalignment-element (32) as best seen in FIG. 10 (and FIG. 34). For oneembodiment such alignment-element (32) is removable. Alternatively, forone embodiment, as best seen in FIG. 23, the interface-portion (38)defines a plurality alignment-element-receivers each configured forreleasably receiving the removable first alignment-element (32). Theadjustable arm element (70) is adjustably associated with theinterface-portion (38) and further defines a second alignment-element(78) defined by top element (74). The second alignment-element isconfigured to use the first structure top edge (12) to define areference point whereas the first alignment-element (32) is configuredto use the first structure bottom edge (13, FIG. 2) to define areference point (as described above). For some configurations the firstalignment-element (32) is removed when the second alignment-element (78)is used.

As best seen in FIGS. 34 and 35, the adjustable arm element (70)comprises a side arm (72) mechanically associated with a top element(74). The top element (74) defines the second alignment-element (78).The side arm (72) is adjustably associated with the interface-portion(38) so that the side arm (72) can be moved up and down theinterface-portion (38) as needed. Side arm (72) further defines aplurality of scale elements (76 a, 76 b, 76 c, FIG. 36) referred tocollectively as scale elements (76). When the first structure (10) is aledger board, such ledger board may come in a plurality of widths suchas 8 inches (2×8), 10 inches (2×10) and 12 inches (2×12),(depth×width−length is not import for this discussion). Scale 76 a isused for a 2×8 board, scale 76 b is used for a 2×10 board and scale 76 cis used for a 2×12 board. Such scale elements (76) allow for a “finetuning” of the reference point.

While the present subject matter has been described in detail withrespect to specific embodiments thereof, it will be appreciated thatthose skilled in the art, upon attaining an understanding of theforegoing may readily adapt the present technology for alterations to,variations of, and equivalents to such embodiments. Accordingly, thescope of the present disclosure is by way of example rather than by wayof limitation, and the subject disclosure does not preclude inclusion ofsuch modifications, variations, and/or additions to the present subjectmatter as would be readily apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art.

What is claimed is:
 1. A tool for associating an attachment-element to astructure, said tool comprising: a handle-portion defining a handle topend and an opposing handle bottom end; an interface-portion opposingsaid handle-portion wherein said interface-portion defines aninterface-top-end and an opposing interface-bottom-end; a top-portionmechanically associating said handle top end to said interface-top-end;a bottom-portion mechanically associating said handle bottom end to saidinterface-bottom-end wherein a tool-void is defined between saidhandle-portion, said interface-portion, said top-portion, and saidbottom-portion; a gap setter configured for setting the gap of opposingsides of said attachment-element; a first alignment-element that is oneof (a) integral to said bottom-portion, (b) integral to saidinterface-portion, (c) mechanically associated with said bottom-portion,or (d) mechanically associated with said interface-portion; and anadjustable arm element adjustably associated with said interface-portionwherein said adjustable arm element defines a second alignment-element.2. A tool for associating an attachment-element to a structure as inclaim 1, wherein said gap setter is defined adjacent to saidinterface-portion and wherein said handle-portion, saidinterface-portion, said top-portion and said bottom-portion define oneintegral component.
 3. A tool for associating an attachment-element to astructure as in claim 1, wherein said gap setter defines slotsconfigured to receive flanges defined by said attachment-element.
 4. Atool for associating an attachment-element to a structure as in claim 3,wherein said gap setter defines slots on opposing sides of saidinterface-portion configured to receive flanges defined by saidattachment-element.
 5. A tool for associating an attachment-element to astructure as in claim 4, wherein at least two of said handle-portion,said interface-portion, said top-portion, or said bottom-portion definea plurality of voids.
 6. A tool for associating an attachment-element toa structure as in claim 1, wherein said second alignment-element opposessaid first alignment element.
 7. An adjustable tool for associating anattachment-element to a structure, said adjustable tool comprising: ahandle-portion and an opposing interface-portion connected by atop-portion and opposing bottom-portion defining a tool-voidtherebetween, wherein said interface-portion defines a pluralityalignment-element-receivers each configured for releasably receiving analignment-element; an alignment-element that is releasably associatedwith one of said plurality of alignment-element-receivers; and anadjustable arm element adjustably associated with said interface-portionwherein said adjustable arm element defines a second alignment-element.8. An adjustable tool for associating an attachment-element to astructure as in claim 7, wherein said handle-portion, saidinterface-portion, said top-portion, and said bottom-portion define oneintegral component adjustably associated with said adjustable armelement.
 9. An adjustable tool for associating an attachment-element toa structure as in claim 8, further comprising a gap setter configuredfor setting the gap of opposing sides of said attachment-element.
 10. Anadjustable tool for associating an attachment-element to a structure asin claim 9, wherein said gap setter is mechanically associated withopposing sides of said interface-portion.
 11. An adjustable tool forassociating an attachment-element to a structure as in claim 10, whereinsaid gap setter receives a right flange and a left flange defined bysaid attachment-element and where the first alignment-element isconfigured to use the bottom of said structure as a reference point. 12.An adjustable tool for associating an attachment-element to a structureas in claim 10, wherein said gap setter receives a right flange and aleft flange defined by said attachment-element and where said secondalignment-element is configured to use the top of said structure todefine a reference point.
 13. An adjustable tool for associating anattachment-element to a structure as in claim 8, wherein one of saidplurality of alignment-element-receivers is configured to receive saidalignment-element so that the attachment-element is aligned with saidstructure referenced from a top edge of said structure.
 14. Anadjustable tool for associating an attachment-element to a structure asin claim 13, further comprising at least one of (a) a magnetic element,(b) a manual measuring element for providing one of leveling data anddistance data, or (c) an electronic measuring element configured forproviding one of leveling data and distance data.
 15. An adjustable toolfor associating an attachment-element to a structure as in claim 7,wherein said adjustable arm element is configured to be removed fromsaid adjustable tool.